The master stylist title is one hairstylists earn through experience, hard work and skill rather than following a particular curricula. Often, these hairstylists become better known by training and working with top stylists in their cities, or teaching at beauty schools. They must then provide clients with the services they desire to gain popularity and repeat business. In return, master stylists earn incomes averaging above $50,000 annually.

Incomes and Qualifications

Most master stylists get paid by the hour, but the largest percentages of their incomes usually come from tips. This may not be the case for those who own beauty salons, as their incomes are paid from their profits. The average annual income of a master stylist was $53,000 as of 2013, according to the job site Simply Hired. Like other stylists, master stylists often start with high school diplomas, and then spend about nine months in training at beauty schools. They also must become licensed cosmetologists in their states, as all hairstylists, by demonstrating expertise in hairstyling and sanitation. What sets them apart is that they often train as apprentices under other master stylists to hone their skills and techniques. Employers typically prefer hiring those with at least five or more years of hairstyling experience. Other essential requirements include physical stamina, attention to detail, creativity, and customer service, listening and time management skills.

Incomes by Region

In 2013, average incomes of master stylists varied most significantly in the South region, according to Simply Hired, where they earned the highest incomes of $84,000 in Washington, D.C., and lowest of $41,000 in Mississippi. Those in the Northeast made $48,000 to $64,000 per year in Maine and Massachusetts, respectively. These hairstylists earned $41,000 to $57,000 in South Dakota and Minnesota, respectively, which represented the lowest and highest incomes in the Midwest. In the West, they made the most in Alaska and California and least in Montana -- $60,000 and $43,000, respectively.

Contributing Factors

A master stylist may earn more in certain industries. For example, hairdressers, hairstylists and cosmetologists earned the highest salaries of $65,160 in the motion picture and video industries as of May 2012, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. They also earned considerably high salaries working for performing arts companies -- $56,950 versus the overall average of $26,790 for all hair stylists. Master stylists also may earn more when employed by movie or performing arts companies. These experienced hairstylists also may earn more working for larger beauty salons or chains, as the bigger salons can better support their higher hourly wages. If they own beauty salons, their incomes are contingent on the number of clients they attract.

Job Outlook

The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 16 percent increase in jobs for hairdressers, hairstylists and cosmetologists, including master stylists, from 2010 to 2020, which is about average compared to the 14 percent growth rate for all occupations. An increasing population and demand for specialized hairstyling, coloring and straightening should increase jobs for master stylists. More enterprising individuals might consider opening salons in cities and towns that need more upscale beauty salons.